Santa Cruz PD receives Purple Heart from unknown soldier

Teddy bear, purple heart left at memorial for fallen officers

At the end of a very trying week for the Santa Cruz Police Department, they were honored to receive a gift from an unknown soldier.

On Thursday, the Santa Cruz Police Department discovered a small teddy bear that had a Purple Heart medal pinned to it.

The teddy bear and the medal were placed at the memorial for the two police officers who were shot and killed Tuesday afternoon while investigating a sexual assault.

It is assumed that the medal was left by a soldier who earned the Purple Heart while risking his or her life in battle, defending America.

"This is no small gift," said the Santa Cruz Police Department in a press release. "The words escape us to adequately describe how honored we are that [the soldier] would choose these officers to offer this gift."

The department went on to say, "The heroism and courage brought forth to earn this medal is deeply understood by the members of our police department"

The medal will be stored in a safe place for the officers' families, said the Santa Cruz department.

Along with the teddy bear and Purple Heart, an anonymous message was left that read:

"The teddy bear reflects the love of our community for the police and all the work they endure during their shifts. The red ribbon reflects the precious blood shed in the line of duty. Purple Heart is for the sacrifice above and beyond the call of duty when one loses their life for the protection of others and the greater good. I know you will understand."

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